🚨 1995 Toyota Avalon: Emergency Neutral
The 1995 Avalon (first generation) uses a column-mounted shifter with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure parking brake is firmly set and wheels are chocked
- Turn ignition to ACC or ON position if battery has any charge
- Locate the shift lock override - look for a small slot or hole near the base of the column shifter stalk, typically covered by a small rubber or plastic cap
- Remove the cover cap by prying gently with a small flathead screwdriver
- Insert the screwdriver into the override hole and press/push inward to depress the release mechanism
- While holding the override depressed, press the button on the shifter handle and move the lever from P to N
- Release the override and replace the cover
Shift-lock override location
Small opening near the base of the column shifter stalk, usually on the underside or right side of the stalk housing, covered by a removable cap
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the mechanical override will still function. The override physically disengages the shift lock solenoid. You do not need electrical power once you access the override mechanism - it works purely mechanically.